TRAUMATISED veterans are not being given vital support and care after fighting for their country, claims a Colwyn Bay support worker.

The Pathways centre in Gwynedd is continuing to care for veterans “by the skin of its teeth” as it continues to battle for funding.

Chris O’Neill of Colwyn Bay, a former trooper who served in Northern Ireland, said ex-forces personnel were getting into trouble with police as they tried to get their lives back on track.

He said: “One ex-soldier from the Rhyl area was involved in an incident a few weeks ago and the police were called and he was charged with assault and is now on bail awaiting trial.

“It was only after we begged the Army Benevolent Fund for money that he was able to spend a month at Pathways where he received support.

“He is no longer at the centre and not getting the detailed support he needs. Fortunately he is still in contact with staff. They would not desert him.

“It is not easy to get funding for Welsh ex-forces personnel. Indeed, it is easier to get funding from health authorities in England.”

Plaid Cymru MP Elfyn Llwyd has visited the centre and seen for himself the work carried out by staff with veterans.

He said: “I’ve campaigned for some time about the lack of support services available to veterans, and Pathways is a real beacon where such little is provided across the UK.

“It is so important we are able to offer a range of services for veterans all under one roof – and that they are easily available and nearby to those that need them.

“There is still a desperate need for more funding though or it just won’t be able to continue.”

A spokesman for Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board said: “We are keen to ensure that the ongoing healthcare needs of veterans are met in North Wales.

“A group has been formed to examine this important issue and we will consider a range of approaches, which may include both providing services directly and developing stronger links with third sector organisations.

“As part of this process we are looking at the most effective way of ensuring that a service is provided.”